Year of the snake
places that hold us, recovery skills, new year bingo
This month, this moment on the clock of the world, I am thinking about places that hold us. Places where we feel safe enough to unravel our nervous systems. Where we can rest as needed. Where we can re-balance and create together.
When I think about places that hold me, this list emerged: my back deck, my studio, the willow tree near the creek behind our house, the digital space of this newsletter, Ventnor beach on Phillip Island, my yoga class…
As an introvert, I am often seeking more time alone. I crave places where I can find peace and solitude. But now, I also feel the need to be part of a collective, to feel the nourishment of sharing food with neighbours, conversation with friends, crafting together, visiting bookshops and art galleries, dancing with others…
And I want to use this creative, collective energy to release old mental and emotional ties. To let go the things that have been weighing heavily on my mind and heart. To tie off loose ends and finish to-do-lists that I’ve been procrastinating over for years.
I’ve been talking about recovery a lot lately. Two people close to me had a fracture last month, and other friends and clients are recovering from injuries and surgery. Also on my mind are the people recovering from the displacement and devastation of wild fires.
What I observe most during recovery times is frustration… not healing as fast as expected. Relying on others to do everyday tasks. Not sleeping well or thinking clearly. Not regaining the function that you wanted to. Just not feeling like yourself…
It is so hard living with pain, limitations and the unknown (we all learned this about ourselves during COVID lockdowns). Being kind to the human parts of yourself and keeping a compassionate perspective are helpful.
Also important, but not always easy, is letting yourself feel whatever it is you are feeling, without constantly trying to change or fix it. Remember, your way might look different to others.
A few other recovery skills I’ve learned are:
keep a timeline or journal of your symptoms - it’s surprising how much changes over time, that you may not otherwise notice.
check in regularly with a trusted friend or health care provider - this is another way to keep track of changes from an external point of view. And having someone to talk to always helps.
celebrate the small wins - notice how creative and adaptable you are. You’re probably already doing some everyday tasks in new ways to suit your different ability.
view your recovery as a short part of your whole life - we all go through illnesses, accidents, aging and losing abilities over time. Seeing recovery and transitions as a normal part of life can bring some relief.
find a supportive community - ask your healthcare provider if there is a support group for your particular injury or illness. And start googling - there is a thriving disability community online, and many people share experiences and resources about living with different bodies and abilities.
try a simple meditation, prayer or affirmation - the cells in your body respond to your words and thoughts, so be mindful of what you are repeating to yourself.
Inspiration
New Year Bingo - thanks to my friend who told me about this social media phenomenon. My daughter and I both loved creating one.
Slow reads in 2025 - I’m recommending Simon’s online book club again here, as it was such a wonderful experience for me last year.
NGV membership - art featured highly in our intentions this year, so joining the gallery will keep us focused and be a joy.
Lunar New Year 2025 - another moment to sweep things clean and set fresh intentions.
Much love,
Emily
Love the new year bingo and all your beautiful heartfelt words about recovery.